Visionary Leadership: Assessing the Existing Culture and Climate

Question 1

Nine Characteristics of High Performing Schools according to the Washington Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction:

Answer 1

1. A clear and shared focus (vision and mission of the school),
2. high standards and expectations for all students,
3. effective school leadership,
4. high levels of collaboration and communication (amongst all stakeholders),
5. curriculum,
6. instruction and assessments aligned with state standards,
7. frequent monitoring of learning and teaching (re-teaching and response to intervention),
8. focused professional development, supportive learning environment,
9. high levels of family and community involvement

Question 2

Powerful, authentic assessment: When evaluating a school, it is important to consider both its _______ and ______ character.

Answer 2

academic, moral

Question 3

A positive culture and climate allows students to feel ______ physically as well as to ______ socially and _____ intellectually.

Answer 3

safe, interact, grow

Question 4

A positive culture and climate gives ______, ______, and ______ a voice.

Answer 4

students, parents, and staff

Question 5

A positive culture has rules and policies that reflect its ______ and has traditions, routines and norms that foster _______ and opportunity for all.

Answer 5

mission, respect

Question 6

The Importance of Walk-throughs—Leading and Learning by Walking Around (LLBWA) is often an excellent strategy. They work best when they are _______, _______, and ________ .

Answer 6

short, frequent, and informal

Question 7

Walk-throughs- Leading and Learning by Walking Around (LLBWA) are an opportunity to observe instruction and classroom _________ as well as to assess _______ and _______ outside of the structured classes.

Answer 7

interactions, climate and culture

Question 8

11 Principles of Effective Character Education:

Answer 8

1. ethical and performance values
2. “character” include thinking, feeling, and doing
3. comprehensive, intentional, and proactive approach
4. caring community,
5. opportunities for moral action (i.e. service/ volunteering)
6. meaningful and challenging academic curriculum
7. fosters students’ self-motivation,
8. staff is an ethical learning community
9. shared leadership and long-range support
10. engages families and community members
11. regularly assesses its culture and climate